Alcohol rules: sales hours, age 20, dry days

Thailand's alcohol rules have shifted several times recently, so older guides are unreliable. The long-standing rule banned shop sales between 2pm and 5pm (allowed windows were 11am-2pm and 5pm-midnight), based on a 1972 military-era order. That changed: a new Alcohol Control Act took effect around November 2025, and after a committee vote the 2pm-5pm ban was lifted via the Royal Gazette on 3 December 2025 for a six-month trial - registered shops can now sell continuously from 11am to midnight, with sales still stopping at midnight. Legal analysis notes the trial status means rules could revert, so treat this as provisional. Other rules remain stable: the legal drinking (and buying) age is 20; alcohol sales are banned nationwide on major Buddhist holy days (Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asanha Bucha, Buddhist Lent) and often on election days - bars and shops close or refuse sales; drinking is banned at temples, schools, and some public places; and drunk-driving penalties are strict. On Samui, licensed entertainment venues have special late hours (to 4am under 2023 rules), but midnight shop-sales rules still apply.

Dates

2pm-5pm ban lifted 3 Dec 2025 (six-month trial); status as of September 2026

Highlights

• Shop sales now 11am-midnight (afternoon ban lifted Dec 2025, six-month trial)
• Legal age to buy and drink: 20
• No alcohol sales on major Buddhist holy days
• Drink-driving laws strictly enforced

Local tips

• On Buddhist holy days, bars and shops do not sell alcohol - plan ahead
• The December 2025 change is a trial; re-check rules before travel
• Keep ID handy - under-25s are often asked

Frequently asked questions

What are the alcohol sales hours in Thailand now?

Since December 2025, registered shops can sell from 11am to midnight without the old 2pm-5pm gap - but this is a six-month trial that could change.

What is the drinking age in Thailand?

20 years old, for buying and drinking.

Why can't I buy beer today?

Probably a Buddhist holy day - alcohol sales are banned nationwide on major religious days (and usually election days).